Suzuki has developed a world first innovation within their outboards which is a device that collects micro-plastic waste whilst operating the outboard. It collects micro-plastic waste from seawater pumped through the engine as part of its cooling system. The device can be easily installed and does not affect the engine performance since it only utilizes the returning water that has already been used to cool the engine.

 

The catalyst for this new technology was the growing environmental issue of marine plastic waste and the huge amount of mismanaged waste flowing into the oceans each year. The waste then breaks down into micro-plastics in the ocean’s ecosystem, significantly impacting marine life.

 

During monitoring research, a substantial amount of micro-plastic waste was found within the substances collected in the filter. Research is also currently being conducted internationally with further improvements scheduled for the device going forward.

 

Mark Beeley, Head of Marine & ATV for Suzuki GB, said, “Suzuki is committed to a cleaner marine environment and this marks the first time in marine industry history that an outboard motor cooling system has been utilised to extract micro-plastics from the seawater. We are really excited by this product development and look forward to playing a part in a positive impact on the marine environment.”

 

This innovation complements Suzuki’s existing Lean Burn technology which is on all of its electronically fuel injected outboards. The Lean Burn Fuel Control technology predicts fuel needs according to operating conditions, then delivers the optimum fuel/air mixture to the engine, across the entire rev range. This means fuel-efficiency and range is increased as well as commercial returns being maximised. 

 

Suzuki always remains focused on providing the ultimate marine experience, which requires a healthy and clean marine environment. Since 2011, Suzuki has been voluntarily conducting its “Clean-Up the World Campaign” globally every year to contribute to a better marine environment. In addition to this, in order to be more considerate towards the planet, Suzuki are making efforts not only to gather plastic waste but to also reduce the plastic packaging from their products.